Effect of Gasoline Exposure to Level of Inflammatory Response: A Cross Sectional Study of Measurement of C-Reactive Protein in Exposed People of Nigeria
Orolua Choice Chukwuyem *
Department of Biochemistry, University of Port Harcourt, Choba, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Monago Ifeoma Nwamaka
Department of Community Medicine, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aim: C-reactive protein (CRP) levels are widely recognized as biomarkers of systemic inflammation and have been linked to an increased risk of chronic diseases. However, potential analytical variability and individual biological responses may influence CRP readings particularly in environmental exposure studies. Therefore, careful interpretation of CRP levels is essential when assessing inflammatory responses among gasoline-exposed individuals. This study investigates the impact of prolonged gasoline exposure on inflammatory response, using C-reactive protein (CRP) levels as a biomarker.
Methodology: A cross-sectional case-control study was conducted involving 60 apparently healthy participants (31 males, 29 females, aged 18–45). The experimental group comprised petroleum station attendants with gasoline exposure of over one year, further categorized into subgroups based on exposure duration: 1–2 years, 3–5 years, and over 5 years. Venous blood samples were collected and analyzed for CRP concentrations using standard laboratory methods.
Results: CRP levels were significantly elevated in the 3–5 years (5.98 ± 2.29 mg/L) and >5 years (5.37 ± 2.88 mg/L) exposure groups compared to the control group (1.25 ± 0.21 mg/L, p < 0.05), indicating a notable inflammatory response in long-term exposed individuals.
Conclusion: Prolonged exposure to gasoline vapors is associated with systemic inflammation, as evidenced by elevated CRP levels. These findings emphasize the potential health risks for petroleum workers and the importance of implementing occupational health safety measures and regular health screenings.
Keywords: C-reactive protein, gasoline exposure, biomarker, inflammatory response